Dry, cracked heels are a common issue, especially during the colder months. The good news is, with a few simple steps, you can treat and prevent them right at home.
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Here's how, with tips from board-certified dermatologists.
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Long baths or showers can strip your skin of moisture, making cracked heels worse. Keep your baths to 5-10 minutes, and be gentle when drying off with a towel.
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Harsh soaps can dry out your feet, so opt for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to help your feet hold onto their natural oils.
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Right after a bath or shower, while your skin is still damp, apply a thick moisturizing cream with ingredients like urea, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid. This helps lock in moisture and keeps your heels soft.
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For extra hydration, use plain petroleum jelly before bed. Slip on a pair of socks to avoid getting it on your sheets.
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Apply a liquid bandage over cracks to form a protective barrier. This helps with pain, speeds up healing, and prevents germs from getting in.
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Avoid open-heeled shoes like flip-flops or any shoes that are worn down or don’t fit well. Proper footwear can help keep your heels protected.
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If your cracked heels are severe or don’t improve, it could be a sign of an underlying condition, like diabetes. In that case, reach out to a dermatologist for personalized care.
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